- Although no birth control method is 100% effective, the following are considered effective means of contraception: surgical sterilization, use of oral contraceptives, barrier contraception using either a condom or diaphragm with spermicidal gel, an intrauterine device, or contraceptive hormone implant or patch. A patient's primary care physician, obstetrician, or gynecologist should be consulted regarding an appropriate form of birth control.